Outback Blackberry-Glazed Chook

 

Imagine a rustic campsite in the heart of the Australian bush, with the smoky aroma of grilling chicken drifting through the air. This recipe captures the sweet and tangy essence of blackberries, combined with succulent chicken, creating a feast perfect for a starlit night in the outback.

Ingredients:

• 170g Blackberries
• 60 ml water
• 2 tbsp. white wine vinegar
• 1 tbsp. sugar
• 2 tbsp. cold butter
• 1 tbsp. whole-grain mustard
• 4 chicken thighs
• 4 drumsticks
• Kosher salt and black pepper
• A handful of fresh, flat-leaf parsley (or native Australian herbs if available)

Campsite Directions:

1. Prepare your campfire or portable grill, aiming for medium heat.
2. In a small saucepan, combine the blackberries, water, white wine vinegar, and sugar. Allow it to simmer, mashing the berries occasionally, until you've got a thick glaze, approximately 18 to 20 minutes.
3. Introduce the cold butter and whole-grain mustard to the mix, stirring until well combined. Split the glaze into two portions, reserving one for later.
4. Pat dry the chicken thighs and drumsticks. Season them generously with kosher salt and black pepper.
5. Begin grilling the chicken with the skin side facing up, covering it for about 15 minutes. After this, uncover and baste with your freshly made glaze. Turn and baste the chicken pieces for another 10 to 12 minutes or until thoroughly cooked.
6. Just before serving, garnish the chicken with fresh flat-leaf parsley (or native Australian herbs). Serve alongside the reserved glaze for added depth of flavour.

Bush Tips:

• When cooking over a campfire, the heat can be unpredictable. Keep rotating your chicken pieces for an even cook.
• If you have the opportunity, try incorporating native Australian berries or fruits to give the dish an authentic bush twist.

Savour the delightful blend of the tangy blackberry glaze and smoky grilled chicken under the vast Australian sky. Here's to the wild spirit of the outback, captured in each bite. May your culinary adventures be as thrilling as your journeys through the bush. Cheers, mate!